Imagine biting into a perfectly golden, crispy sandwich where savory ham and creamy Havarti cheese melt together, dramatically interrupted by a surprising burst of sweet fig preserves. This isn't just another grilled cheese - this is a gourmet experience that transforms the humble sandwich into a culinary masterpiece. In just 15 minutes, you'll create a restaurant-quality meal that will have your taste buds dancing and your family begging for seconds!
Prep Time: 5 mins
Cook Time: 10 mins
Total Time: 15 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 2 sandwiches
Ingredients
- 4 slices of bread
- 4 slices ham
- 4 slices Havarti cheese
- 2 tbsp fig preserves
- Butter for grilling
Instructions
- Begin by gathering all your ingredients: 4 slices of bread, 4 slices of ham, 4 slices of Havarti cheese, 2 tablespoons of fig preserves, and butter for grilling.
- Spread a thin layer of butter on one side of each slice of bread. This will help achieve a golden, crispy crust when grilling.
- On the unbuttered side of two slices of bread, layer 2 slices of Havarti cheese, followed by 2 slices of ham, and then another 2 slices of Havarti cheese. This creates a delicious filling that melts well.
- Spread 1 tablespoon of fig preserves on the unbuttered side of the remaining two slices of bread. This will add a sweet contrast to the savory ham and cheese.
- Place the slices with fig preserves on top of the assembled sandwiches, ensuring the buttered sides are facing outwards.
- Preheat a skillet or frying pan over medium heat. Once hot, carefully place the sandwiches in the pan.
- Cook the sandwiches for about 3-4 minutes on one side, or until they are golden brown and the cheese begins to melt. You can gently press down on the sandwiches with a spatula to help them cook evenly.
- Flip the sandwiches carefully and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes on the other side, until golden brown and the cheese is fully melted.
- Once cooked, remove the sandwiches from the skillet and let them rest for a minute before slicing them in half. This will help the cheese set slightly and make them easier to eat.
- Serve the Ham and Havarti Grilled Cheese with Fig Preserves warm, and enjoy the delightful combination of flavors!
Tips
- Use room temperature butter for easier spreading and more even browning
- Choose a heavy-bottomed skillet to ensure consistent heat distribution
- Keep the heat at medium to prevent burning while allowing cheese to melt thoroughly
- Press the sandwich gently with a spatula to help create a crisp, even crust
- Let the sandwich rest for 1-2 minutes after cooking to allow cheese to set and flavors to meld
- For extra richness, consider using unsalted butter or adding a light spread of mayonnaise to the outside of the bread
- Select a high-quality Havarti for maximum creaminess and flavor
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 450kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 25g
Fat: 25g
Saturated Fat: 12g
Cholesterol: 65mg
